The Washington Commanders have taken significant steps to reshape their roster following the conclusion of the 2025 NFL season, which ended on January 7. In a series of roster moves, the team has signed three players to reserve/future contracts, a common practice across the league during this off-season period. These contracts are particularly important as they allow players who were either on practice squads or unsigned free agents to secure a pathway into the upcoming training camp and offseason program.
On January 9, the Commanders announced the signing of guard Tyler Cooper and wide receiver Nick Nash. The following day, they welcomed tight end Lawrence Cager to their ranks. Cager, a 6-foot-5, 220-pound player, brings experience from multiple teams, including the New York Jets and the New York Giants, where he played from 2022 to 2024. He has participated in 22 NFL games, including a Week 16 matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles at Northwest Stadium.
Nash, standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 195 pounds, entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent. He initially signed with the Atlanta Falcons but was released after training camp this past season. Cooper, also a towering presence at 6 feet 5 inches and weighing 302 pounds, was briefly a member of the Commanders’ practice squad before being released. He later joined the Arizona Cardinals’ practice squad before returning to Washington.
These reserve/future contracts are typically structured as one-year deals at the league minimum, with no guarantees attached. They allow the players to be included in the 90-man offseason roster limit, which plays a crucial role in the team’s preparation for the next league year, set to begin in March 2026.
This strategic approach allows the Commanders to assess potential talent while also managing their salary cap effectively. The addition of these three players provides them with opportunities to compete for roster spots as they prepare for the upcoming season.
The Commanders have recently undergone changes in their coaching staff, severing ties with three coaches, including Kliff Kingsbury and Joe Whitt Jr.. Despite these shifts, the team’s commitment to building a competitive roster remains evident through these signings.
As the offseason progresses, fans and analysts alike will be keenly watching how these players integrate into the Commanders’ plans for the 2026 season and beyond.
